"It feels like freedom" PathStone, Northwest Program Helps Couple Achieve Dream of Homeownership
Facing physical and financial obstacles, Scott and Leah Adams never believed homeownership was possible for them.
But in a testament to their determination and faith, the couple tapped into the resources and education offered through PathStone Indiana’s Homebuyers Acquisition and Rehabilitation Program (HARP) to achieve their dream of owning their first home.
HARP aims to provide equitable housing solutions for low-to-moderate-income individuals in Muncie, Indiana. Funded in part by the City of Muncie ARP funds and provided in partnership by PathStone Housing Corporation of Indiana, First Merchants Bank and Northwest Bank, the program provides up to $20,000 for first-time homebuyers to purchase and rehabilitate homes in the community.
Through HARP, Scott and Leah worked with Northwest Bank to secure the funding they needed to purchase their first property, build a wheelchair ramp and make essential updates, transforming their home into a safe and accessible haven.
Today, the couple described how it feels to own their first home in one word — freedom.
For Scott, who relies on Supplemental Security Income due to his disability, the path to homeownership was especially meaningful. “I’ve always dreamed of owning my own home, even though several people told me I couldn't because I was on SSI and have a disability,” he shared. “And here we are. For me, it has put the stigma of disabilities and homeownership on the back burner.”
When their landlord nearly doubled their rent, the couple knew they had to make a change or risk becoming homeless.
“I remember when Leah looked at me and said, ‘We got this’, Scott said. “We didn’t quit – we knew we had to make changes.”
Leah emphasized that perseverance and financial discipline helped them achieve their goal. "We had to make tough choices and cut back," she explained. "But every sacrifice was worth it to reach this milestone."
The couple first heard about PathStone during a presentation at a community renters’ meeting. They took a pamphlet home, intending to share it with a friend they believed could use from the organization’s services.
After taking a second look, Scott and Leah realized they too could benefit from PathStone’s services.
By providing housing and financial education and personalized counseling, PathStone played a crucial role in the couple’s homebuying journey -- from selecting a mortgage lender and completing the required paperwork, to choosing contractors for their chosen rehabilitation projects.
"These programs empowered us," Scott noted. "They showed us that having a disability doesn't limit our ability to be responsible homeowners."
With the dedicated support of PathStone Housing Counselor Brandon Lien and Northwest Bank’s Community Lending Officer Arlicia Robertson, “HARP gave us our own team of people who we could reach out to at any moment when we were stuck on something or needed help,” Scott said.
With their mortgage loan and the HARP grant, the Adams purchased their long-awaited home and could ensure it was safe and tailored to their needs. Essential modifications like a wheelchair ramp, a new roof and an updated HVAC system welcomed them to their new life as homeowners.
Closing day marked a significant milestone for Scott and Leah. "Receiving those keys felt like a weight lifted off our shoulders,” Leah said. “We realized we would never have to worry about making another rent payment.”
Now, the Adams are building equity and planning future improvements, transforming their once fixer-upper into a home that embodies the comfort and independence they’ve always wanted.
In reflecting on their journey, the couple shared that their strong faith helped them stay the course. “The first thing we did that night, after we got the keys… We looked at each other, bowed our heads and just said ‘Thank you’,” Scott said.
“Owing our own home, we look at long-term goals now. Not just in home ownership, but in everyday life. It’s very empowering being where we are today,” Scott said. “We want to inspire others and show them that with determination and the right support, buying a home is possible.”
From uncertain renters to proud homeowners, the Adams hope they can inspire those who may face similar challenges.
